1. You are a follower of Jesus Christ.
2. You are beginning a changed life in Christ.
3. You are part of a new family.
Baptism is an important step of obedience that shows others you have personally trusted in Jesus Christ for salvation. Jesus was baptized when He was on the earth, and we do this to follow His example. When Christians are baptized, they are submerged under water to identify with the death and burial of Jesus and raised out of the water to identify with His resurrection.
Water Baptism for Children
We are so excited that you are considering baptism for your child. Every child can have a personal relationship with Jesus. We encourage and give opportunities for children to make a decision to follow Jesus. Our children are encouraged to not just learn about Jesus, but learn from Jesus by walking with Him every day.
We advise parents to wait until their child is asking to be water baptized. This is usually a good indication that they are ready to be baptized and it will be a spiritual milestone in their life. While younger children under the age of 5 can have a relationship with Jesus, they will not necessarily remember or understand the significance of the event, so we encourage parents to wait until they are a little older.
As you discern if your child is ready to be water baptized, here are some questions to ask your child:
1. Why do you want to be water baptized?
Answers that indicate your child understands: Because Jesus was and he tells us to also; Because I’m a friend of Jesus and I want to follow Him.
2. What does it mean to be water baptized?
Answers that indicate your child understands: It means I’m following Jesus; It means I’m a Christian and I want to show the world; It’s a picture of what Jesus has done on the inside of me.
3. When did you decide to follow Jesus and become His forever friend (born- again, saved)?
Answers that indicate your child understands: Your child should have a specific memory of when he understood what Jesus did for him and that he needs Jesus in his life. It may have been at church, at home, or even sometime when he was alone.
Your Child Is Ready:
If you feel your child understands what it means to be water baptized, then go through this devotional explaining more about water baptism.
Your Child Is Not Ready:
If you don’t feel your child understands what it means to be water baptized, it’s totally appropriate to wait. Remember, water baptism does not save – that is done by your child trusting Jesus. During this time, let your child observe water baptism and talk to them about what it means. Go through this devotional with your child and spur them on in their personal friendship with Jesus.
If you have any questions, or would like to talk to someone about the process, please fill out the form or talk to us in person and we would be happy to discuss this with you.
